Out of This World: The New Field
of Space Architecture

This collaborative book compiles thirty chapters on the theory and practice
of designing and building inhabited environments in outer space. Given the
highly visual nature of architecture, the book is rich in graphics including
diagrams, design drawings, digital renderings, and photographs of models and of
executed and operational designs.

Written by the global network of practicing space architects, the book
introduces a wealth of ideas and images explaining how humans live in space now,
and how they may do so in the near and distant future. It describes the
governing constraints of the hostile space environment, outlines key issues
involved in designing orbital and planet-surface architecture, surveys the most
advanced space architecture of today, and proposes far-ranging designs for an
inspiring future. It also addresses earth-based space architecture: space
analogue and mission support facilities, and terrestrial uses of space
technology.

In addition to surveying the range of space architecture design, from
sleeping quarters to live-in rovers to moon bases and space cities, the book
provides a valuable archival reference for professionals. Space
enthusiasts, architects, aerospace engineers, and students will find it a
fascinating read.

Architecture for Astronauts: An Activity-Based
Approach

Living and working in extra-terrestrial habitats means being potentially
vulnerable to very harsh environmental, social, and psychological
conditions. With the stringent technical specifications for launch
vehicles and transport into space, a very tight framework for the creation of
habitable space is set. These constraints result in a very demanding
“partnership” between the habitat and the inhabitant.

This book is the result of researching the interface between people, space
and objects in an extra-terrestrial environment. The evaluation of
extra-terrestrial habitats in comparison to the user’s perspective leads
to a new framework, comparing these buildings from the viewpoint of human
activity. It can be used as reference or as conceptual framework for the
purpose of evaluation. It also summarizes relevant human-related design
directions. The work is addressed to architects and designers as well as
engineers.